Hydra
The picturesque island of Hydra, with it's roots buried deep in Greek history and tradition, has for many years been a well-kept secret as a favourite getaway destination.
Close to Athens, this small, mountainous island in the Saronic Gulf has long mesmerised its visitors with its quaintness, rich history and cultural allure.
When you arrive you instantly feel the change of pace. The main port is cosmopolitan and elegant, with its 18th-century mansions, captains’ homes, old churches, wells and marble-covered alleyways that fan out everywhere. And at the same time, water taxis buzz around the island like bees. As soon as you step onto the cobblestones of the harbour, you change century. The well-preserved mansions and manors could have come from the set of an old movie.
Hydra has always been a favoured retreat of jet setters and rockstars: Aristotle Onassis, Maria Callas, Rex Harrison, Peter Ustinov, Leonard Cohen, Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones have all regularly frequented the island ... as have famous artistic luminaries, among them Picasso, Chagall and Miller.
The Periptero (kiosk), Spilia (cave) and Idroneta are three must-sees by the sea. At Periptero, stop and take in the view, whilst admiring the huge cannons. At beautiful Spilia, sip a leisurely coffee before diving off the rocks. At Idroneta’s pier, you can dry off from your daily swim and head straight to book a table for dinner.
From town, you can walk to the picturesque marina of Kaminia (furnaces), where you’ll find the Red House, built in 1786, inhabited by Admiral Miaoulis, now used for art exhibitions.
Climb to the oldest settlement in Hydra, Kiafa, located high above the harbour. This gem is made up of narrow alleyways, impressive mansions, old grocery stores and boutique hotels. Trekking up to the seven windmills at the top of the hill of Agios Athanasios, you’ll be rewarded by the view.
THINGS TO DO & SEE
Day trip to Spetses or Poros
Art Galleries & Museums
Walking Trails
In a Nutshell
A getaway from it all island close to Athens..ideal for a short visit or a longer stay. It was good enough for Leonard Cohen et al..
Getting Here
Fly to Athens - TRANSFER BY FERRY
Early flights may offer same day ferry connection
Approx. 90min from Piraeus by hydrofoil
Daily Direct flights from London Heathrow with British Airways
Daily Direct flights from London Gatwick with Easyjet
Direct flights from Manchester with Easyjet
Our location maps are intended as a helpful guide but are by no means definitive.
